>>6067385

>Duluth, House Horford: Perhaps the most average of all of the kingdoms. Despite its large size, Duluth is considered neither weak nor strong. Viewed as a threat by no one and likewise threatened by no one. Duluth does its duty to the Empire, keeps an average army, and has largely friendly relations with its neighbors.[Aspect: Flexible]

>The Varyne Peninsula, House Meier: Among the lowliest of the kingdoms. As the name suggests, it is located on a peninsula at the western end of the Empire. Created only to resolve a feud between The Fellants and Meiers when the Empire was formed. Varyne is considered a laughing stock among the kingdoms, with little to be proud of. The exception being that their vineyards are known for producing the finest wines, so winemaking is their biggest source of income. [Aspect: Underdog].

>Borealis, House Watford : A landlocked kingdom located south of the Imperial Capital. Borealis’ central location and lush farmland make it an economic powerhouse second only to Ellia. Borealan merchants are renowned for their speed and shrewdness. [Aspect: Business Judgment].

>Issi, House Pereline: A tropical kingdom rich due to its exotic goods and easy access to foreign markets. Issi is home to many foreigners, making it a cultural melting pot of sorts. Due to the year-round warm weather, Issi is culturally very easy going and stereotyped as a place of romance and adventure. [Aspect: Hot Blooded]

>Crain, House Toussle: The most obscure of the kingdoms, largely located within a thick swampland that most find extremely inhospitable due to the dangerous wildlife, humid weather, and lack of farmland. Crain engages in some trade with Issi, foreign merchants, and Borealis, but maintains a fairly unimpressive economy and military. Like Errat, much of Crain’s resilience is due to the fact that no one has ever wanted to invade it. Crain is known as a land of witchcraft and dark arts, known for housing cults and sorcerous hermits capable of inflicting deadly curses, diving the future, and healing mortal wounds. [Aspect: Left Hand Path]

>Kingdom of Errat, House Zane: Located in the midst of the Errat Desert, the Zanes are among the most culturally distinct houses. Having little need for defense, as no one wants to invade the desert, and no fertile land, the serfs extract the vast mineral resources from the desert caves and trade them for food which is paid as tax to the royal family, who pass the time studying arts on the humanities. Royal children from all across the empire are sent to ward in Errat due to the quality of its scholars. [Aspect: Superior Education]

>>6067385
>Free Chalmuth, House Kabot: The youngest of all the kingdoms, located at an island west of the continent proper. Formerly a part of Ellia’s territory, but when the Fellants refused the island's call for troops to deal with rampant piracy, an uprising took place and the Chalmuthians refused to pay any taxes to either Ellia or the Emperor. The Emperor sided with the Chalmuthians, helped broker a peace with Captain Kabot, which involved installing the Pirate Captain as the new king of the island. [Aspect: Swashbuckler]

>Crain, House Toussle: The most obscure of the kingdoms, largely located within a thick swampland that most find extremely inhospitable due to the dangerous wildlife, humid weather, and lack of farmland. Crain engages in some trade with Issi, foreign merchants, and Borealis, but maintains a fairly unimpressive economy and military. Like Errat, much of Crain’s resilience is due to the fact that no one has ever wanted to invade it. Crain is known as a land of witchcraft and dark arts, known for housing cults and sorcerous hermits capable of inflicting deadly curses, diving the future, and healing mortal wounds. [Aspect: Left Hand Path]

Pirate sorcerer sounds fun.

>Californicus Pereline
>Champion of Issi, warded at House Zane

Quick to laugh, and even quicker to share a joke, Californicus' sense of humor and good nature is known throughout the land. With somewhat clandestine support from the foreign lands, he emerges as the champion for Issi.

>>6067387
+1

Gonna leave this up for a bit since I need to go somewhere. Will be back in 4-5 hours.

>>6067387
We Euron now

>>6067398
>Californicus
kek

>>6067387
Argh, +1

>>6067492
>>6067408
>>6067387
Pirate Sorcerer it is. Back home and writing. A little more character creation but we'll get going soon.

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>>6067610
You are Marshall Kabot. One of Captain Edward Kabot's many bastard sons. From an early age you took to the life at sea, as comfortable on a wooden deck as on land, if not more so. In your formative years, you were sent to Crain to live alongside the main branch of House Toussle, an effort by Kabot to forge an alliance with the queer, reclusive nation. At first, he dank, humid swamps made you feel almost claustrophobic compared to the open sea, but in time you grew accustomed to the strange place, learning how to spot an alligator hidden beneath the murky waters and which plants would cause an itch, so that you could run and play with the other children. You were also exposed to the frightening rituals performed in Crain. Much of it was charlatanism, you are sure, but you saw some things you still feel you cannot explain. In your final years there, you spent your free time taking a canoe through the muddy bog and finding the decrepit hags who boiled noxious brews in their cauldrons, and would threaten you with ghastly curses unless you appeased them with gifts and compliments. In your visits, you gained some superficial understanding the swamp people's dark magics: basic charms and curses used to enhance one's luck, or sabotage another's. When you returned to Chalmuth, your experience abroad made your old life seem somehow easier. Your father began keeping you in his company when he met with his officers and advisors, and in time gave you your own boat, so long as you promised to honor his oath to the Emperor not to disrupt the Empire's merchants. The promise was quickly broken, you and your friends would sail away for days at a time, terrorizing and raiding Varyne and Issi's merchant ships. You were never caught, yet you always felt that your father secretly knew. Now you're 16 years of age, tall and dark and always wearing a cocky smile won through the countless challenges you have overcome with ease.

At the Emperor's invitation, there was no question as to who Captain Kabot would choose as his champion. Within a week, you left for Issi, not wanting to pass through Ellia, and began the long trek over land to the capital. You had never spent so long away from the sea. The feeling of trudging so long upon the solid earth made you feel as though a part of you was missing. When you finally arrived, however, the sight of the Capital city reinvigorated you. Compared to the dingy wooden huts, piers, and house boats that make up Chalmuth, the Imperial Capital may as well have been built by another species. Tall marble towers came into view first, then sturdy stone temples that seem to be built into the earth's very foundation, and then at last the hive of merchants, soldiers, and politicians who swarm endlessly through the city's clean streets.

>>6067625
Your father did not want you to take the journey alone, so he instructed you to bring someone along with you:
>Uncle Byron. One of your father's guards. A gruff, blunt man with no regard for manners or etiquette, but one of the most skilled men with a sword you've ever seen.
>Jackson. Your first mate, a loyal friend who at times annoys you to no end. While you are bold and care-free, he is always careful and cautious, planning ahead and considering dangers. While he's often too careful, you can't deny that he's saved your tail once or twice.
>Dr. Olaf. A medicine man, native to the Imperial City. Knowledgeable in medicine, familiar with court politics, and educated in general. He has served as your father's advisor for many years.
>(Feel free to write in if you have any cool ideas).

When facing a challenge, you've always relied mostly on your...
>Cleverness
>Silver-tongue
>Sneakiness
>Prowess in battle

>>6067634
>Dr. Olaf. A medicine man, native to the Imperial City. Knowledgeable in medicine, familiar with court politics, and educated in general. He has served as your father's advisor for many years.

>Silver-tongue

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>>6067661
Your father sent one of his advisors, Olaf, along with you. Olaf is a native of the Imperial city, and so Captain Kabot thought his knowledge of court might be valuable in whatever it is that the Emperor has planned. While Olaf is undoubtedly intelligent and wise, he is also very old. He spent most of the journey asleep. When he wasn't sleeping, he was putting you to sleep with meandering anecdotes from ages past.

The two of you receive a royal welcome at the imperial palace. Imperial Knights escort you to an apartment which is to be your home during whatever is to come. You set down your things and just when you are ready to lay down and rest for the first time in weeks, a pair of knights appears to escort you for an audience with the Emperor himself. Dr. Olaf is told to wait behind.

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You arrive in an antechamber and find a retinue of knights standing along with ten others who you can only assume are the champions from the other kingdoms. One of them you recognize, Sasha Toussle, princess of Crain, and it's a wonder you do. The frail, demure girl you remember looks a woman grown, an eccentric one at that. Her hair is tied into tight dreadlocks, and she adorned from head to toe with exotic jewelry made from wood and gem. Her face is painted in a ritual fashion you recognize from your time observing the witch doctors and hags in Crain. If she recognizes you as well, she does not show it.

The other champions, for the most part, what you expected. Well-bred boys and girls of a similar age with you. Just glancing between them, you feel you can probably guess which country they represent, some being more obvious than others. They have surely recognized you as the Chalmuthian champion. Aside from Sasha, the champion who seems the most out of place is a young boy, surely no older than twelve, wearing a bored frown.

They must have been waiting on you. As soon as you arrive, one of the knights knocks three times on a tall, sturdy wooden door, and seconds later the door is pulled open without a sound.

You are led single file into a large, dim room. A massive canopied bed protrudes from the wall to your right, and it takes you a moment to see that someone is in it. The Emperor. One by one, the champions who discover his presence kneel. Even you, despite Free Chalmuth's sometimes flippant regard for Imperial Authority, death would be merciful punishment for disrespecting the Emperor in his own home. You had heard rumors of the Emperor's failing health, but the sight of him shocks you still. His whithered gray skin seems to hang like tissue paper over his bones. His eyes are black and sullen, so that from a distance one cannot tell if they are open or closed, and a mane of long, white hair sprawls out beneath him. An imperial knight stands on either side of his bed, still as a statue. Two young, female nurses in blue robes sit next to him, monitoring his condition.

“Welcome, you may rise.” You startle as the man who speaks steps away from the wall. You had not noticed him before, and based on the reaction of your fellow champions, they had not either. He is a tall man dressed in motley. An Imperial Jester, without doubt. The jesters are an order of the Emperor’s most loyal advisors, spies, and servants. Of the few people even accepted into Imperial service, only a handful become Knights, and even fewer jesters. “You are no doubt weary from your long journey here, so you will be dismissed soon once the nature of your stay here has been explained."

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>>6068030
The Jester continues, "The Emperor has called you all here so that the Empire may be passed onto to the individual most fit to rule. Rather than let the matter be decided by politicians currying favor, he has ordered that a contest be prepared within the boundaries of the Imperial Territory. Over the next 100 days, you will be competing to accumulate points. Your points will be represented by gemstones which you will be awarded upon successfully completing a challenge. Whichever Champion has the most gemstones at the conclusion of the contest will be made heir to the Empire."

Several champions gasp at that. You yourself are not surprised, it seemed obvious that the Empire wanted to find someone to succeed him. You can practically hear the vain imaginations of your competitors already picturing themselves upon the Imperial throne, it almost makes you laugh. You're not even sure if you would want to be Emperor. If you were, perhaps you would simply abolish the Empire. Still, the thought of taunting all of the haughty lords and ladies with your new found power does sound entertaining. You grin. The thought of living so far from the sea is unappealing, although if you were emperor, perhaps you could simply move the Imperial seat to Chalmuth. Who could stop you.

"Some gemstones may simply be hidden somewhere throughout the Imperial Territory; however, the majority must be won by completing challenges. You may begin challenges by standing upon a "starting point." Starting points are marked by the Imperial Seal with a colored number overlapping it. The number corresponds to how many challengers must be present to commence the challenge. The color of the number corresponds to the gemstone awarded. The more valuable the gemstone awarded, the more difficult and dangerous the challenge. Only Champions are allowed to partake in challenges, and using outside aid is considered cheating, and will result in a penalty to be decided at the penalizing Jester's discretion.

"Furthermore, you are forbidden from harming another Champion unless the rules of a challenge allow it. You are, however, allowed to steal a fellow Champion's gemstones, so long as you do so clandestinely. If caught in the act, you will be required to surrender one half of your accumulated gemstones to whomever you targeted. You are allowed to freely give up your gemstones to one another, and the Emperor expects that some of you may build a coalition around certain Champions in return for political favors. You are under no obligation to do so, however, and regardless of any agreement among you, whoever has the most valuable gemstones at the end of 100 days will be deemed the Emperor's heir."

There's a long silence in the room as you all take in the rules. This is certainly much more of an elaborate scheme than you had been expecting, and you can't help but wonder if you're disadvantaged by your unorthodox skillset. Only time will tell.

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>>6068060
"The games will officially begin tomorrow at Midday, at which time the Jesters Corps will begin to place challenges and gemstones throughout the Imperial territory. Tonight, you have freedom to explore the capital and palace at your leisure. If there is nothing else, you are dismissed."

>You may ask a question: [specify].

Whether you ask a question or not, next you...
>Talk with Sasha.
>Try to get to know another Champion, you're most interested in the Champion from [Specify].
>Invite all of the Champions to eat together, to try to meet them. (Charm roll, DC: 75, 1d100, bo4 [Base bo2 + two additional rolls for Aspect Silvertongue] [Partial success possible]).
>Go strategize with Dr. Olaf.

>>6068069
>Question
>>Should we get caught in the act of stealing gemstones, would the half of the gemstones surrendered be by number of gemstones, or the numerical amount of points surrendered? If I had 3 Topaz and 3 Black Diamonds, could I just hand over 3 Topaz and call it half?

>Invite all of the Champions to eat together, to try to meet them. (Charm roll, DC: 75, 1d100, bo4 [Base bo2 + two additional rolls for Aspect Silvertongue] [Partial success possible]).

>>6068069
>>6068183
Support

>>6068183
>>6068222
Alright, rolls please.

Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>6068385

Rolled 77, 44, 59 = 180 (3d100)

Rolling the rest

>>6068581
Just barely! Writing.

>>6068069
Thought for later, we could give all our gems to an ally before trying to steal. Then we have no gems to give as punishment

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The other Champions start for the door, but stop and look at you when you speak up with your question. “If we’re caught stealing, is the penalty based on gem quantity, or value?”

The champions heads turn from you to the Jester, and you see the flicker of a smile at the edge of the his mouth, “By value, rounded down. So if, for instance, you had a diamond, an amethyst, and a ruby, totaling 175 points, and were caught stealing, you would be forced to surrender the amethyst and ruby to whomever you tried to steal from.”

You nod, the penalty on stealing isn’t too harsh, all things considered. Good to know.

“Any other questions?” The Jester asks, while he has your attention.

“The Jesters Corps will be surveilling us throughout the entire game, then?” The question comes from a pale, black haired boy who looks an age with you. He’s short and extremely lean, with porcelain skin and pitch eyes. His voice is soft and smooth and its echo beneath the high-vaulted ceilings of the Emperor’s bed chamber imparts to it a sinister almost snake-like quality.

“Not necessarily the whole game. Often enough. My brothers and I have a knack at going undetected, so you will not know the difference.” The force of some taboo implication dances between the Jester’s answer. Does that mean you could possibly get away with some form of cheating so long as the Jesters aren’t watching? Would there be anyway to know for sure?

“Will all challenges be placed at once? Or will they appear throughout the course of the game? Are there any hints or clues as to the location of the challenges.” The speaker has the characteristic accent and tan skin of an Erratian. He looks to be among the oldest of the champions. He has long, black hair tied and decorated ornately with lapis-lazuli filigree that match his piercing blue eyes.

“Challenges will be placed throughout the competition, and may appear in any place at any time. Occasionally hints, clues, or even outright announcements will be provided as to the location of a challenge.”

After that, there are no more questions. The Jester bows, and steps backwards towards the wall at the Emperor’s side. The knights lead you back into the antechamber and you can see each of the Champions processing the rules of the bizarre contest.

"What an exciting competition." You say with your usual bravado, feeling no awkwardness at addressing the group of mostly strangers.

A few of the other champions look at you, but no one responds.

"Given that one of us will be the future Emperor, wouldn't it be best if we all got to know each other before we become enemies tomorrow?" You ask.

The expression on their faces tells you that most of them had become so focused on the competition, that they had already forgotten about the prize.

"I'll come." A tall, handsome red haired boy dressed in fine, regal clothing is the first to respond. "Best that you all get to know your future Emperor." He says snidely.

(Cont).

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>>6068614
"I agree. So you all need to meet ME!" The young boy says indignantly.

The red haired boy rolls his eyes. "Does your mommy know you're here? You should run back to her, I imagine she's worried."

The boy glares. "Hey! I'll have you kno-"

"Easy easy!" You say, grinning. "We'll all find out who the better man is in one hundred and one days."

"Man?" The red haired boy smirks.

The young boy huffs, fuming, and turns away with his arms crossed.

The pale boy from earlier smiles, "I'll come as well."

"And I." Says the Erratian.

"Well, if everyone is going, I guess I will too." An attractive, tall woman with wavy black hair and cafe au lait skin says reluctantly. You feel confident that she is the Issian Champion, if for no other reason than her revealing Islander garb.

"Hell, you know I'm coming." A massive man, a head taller than anyone, who, depending on the angle from which you see him, seems either incredibly muscular or incredibly fat. "I was gonna go eat anyway."

Another man, the second tallest, and unquestionably muscular, does not answer, but neither does he make to leave.

Sasha, still giving no indication of whether she recognizes you or not, says demurely, "I'll come as well."

"Me too." A small, thin, black haired girl says casually.

Only one person has yet to speak, a beautiful blonde woman wearing gilded plate armor. "Fine. I'll come as well." She finally says.

"Excellent!" You clap your hands together. "I look forward to getting to know such a colorful bunch." You turn to one of the knights, "My friend, could you please lead us to somewhere we can sit and eat together?"

The knight nods, and leads your group through the labyrinthine palace hallways to a large refectory attached to the apartments where you left your things earlier. A large spread of bread, cured meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, and fruit is already out, and when the servants see you enter, they kick into a frenzied motion, urgently whispering to one another and hurrying into the kitchen, like roaches scattering from the light, leaving the refectory in a sudden, still silence.

The eleven of you sit around a large table. The red haired boy is quick to sit at the head of the table, and the young boy as far away from him as possible. You find yourself seated somewhere near the middle, across from the island girl and next to the Erratian and the silent, muscular boy from earlier.

(Cont.)

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>>6068666
"Well, then, perhaps we should introduce ourselves then?" The red haired boy stands. "I am Eric Fellant. Heir to Ellia." He looks to his left.

The pale boy stands and speaks quietly, "Zachariah Reid. Of the Winterlands."

The tall islander girl stands, oozing femininity. Her revealing clothing reveals numerous tattoos covering her arms, chest, and legs, displaying symbols and patterns whose significance you could not guess. "Andrea Pelerine. I am from Issi."

The blonde girl next to her stands. She is beautiful as well, but in a way totally unlike Andrea. Whereas Andrea is full-bodied and sensuous, the blonde girl is slender and delicate. "I am the Princess Annabella Goins, of the Kingdom of Pan." She says formally.

Sasha is next. She does not stand, "Sasha Toussle, of Crain." She says in her hoarse, demure voice.

The young boy stands up on his chair, glaring briefly at Eric. "I am Nicholas Watford. From Borealis! Do not call me Nick!" He says, still sounding upset from earlier, when he finishes, he falls down onto his rear with a huff.

"Me then?" The lithe, black haired girl asks in a delicate voice with a coy smile. "Nancy Meier, just from Varyne." She shrugs.

The massive man has been glancing towards the kitchen impatiently this whole time, "John-Patrick Horford. You can call me JP. Of Duluth. Hungry."

The muscular man next to him slowly stands, his musculature is visible even beneath the thick cloth shirt he has on. "Iain Gerrard, of the Gerrard clan, high clan of Nethos." He sits.

You stand, swaggering, "Pleased to meet you all, I am Marshall Kabot, of Free Chalmuth." You bow.

The Erratian stands, "And I am Messian Zane, crown prince of Errat. Pleased to make your acquaintance."

Before you can begin to speak, the kitchen door bursts open, and servants come pouring out, carrying plates and treys and glasses and bottles, and swarming over you and the other champions like ants. When they depart, a delectable spread is set out before you: A roast peacock, tail still in-tact, roast potatoes, boats of gravy, a suckling pig with crisp skin, honeyed mushrooms, and so much more, along with several bottle of fine red wine.

You pour yourself a glass and stand, "Well then, a toast, to a night of friendship, before one hundred nights of enmity!"

JP, already sucking the meat off of a rib, is the first to join the toast. "I'll drink to that!"

One by one, the others join the toast, some enthusiastically, others reluctantly, and others giving no hints as to their thoughts about it.

You drain your first glass of wine and begin to fill your plate. Eric stands to speak. "Now, I understand that some, or perhaps all of you, have aspirations to be Emperor, or perhaps your father wishes for your House to inhabit the Imperial seat. But, on this night of friendship, I will extend this offer: throw in your lot with me now, and be rewarded. Oppose me, and live to regret it when the Imperial Knights are mine to command."

>>6068686
The table is silent for a few seconds, before it explodes into animated debate. Nicholas shouts indignantly at Eric from across the table, while Annabella chastises him as. JP voices his disagreement between bites as Andrea begins begins a long string of insults towards no one in particular. Eventually, the table calms, and multiple conversations break out.

You're most interested in speaking with:
>Eric
>Zachariah
>Andrea
>Annabella
>Messian
>Iain

About:
>Just getting to know them better
>A possible alliance
>Getting their thoughts on someone [specify]
>Write in

>>6068688
>Messian
>Just getting to know them better

>>6068688
>Messian
>Just getting to know them better

>Getting their thoughts on someone [JP of Duluth]

Their kingdoms of next to each other so they probably have an idea about him.

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>>6068737
>>6068763
The champions begin speaking with one another. Eric begins probing Zachariah with questions about the North, living in the cold, and what he would hope to do as Emperor. Zachariah answers politely, keeping the conversation going but being sure not to overshare. Andrea and Annabella, despite their differences, have no trouble striking up a conversation about something you could honestly care less about. Further down the table, you can see that Nicholas is doing his best to get Sasha and Nancy to speak with him. Iain, next to you, is in a short back and forth with JP that looks to be bordering on an eating contest with the way they’re both eating.

Messian seems content to watch. His stoic blue eyes taking in everything around him. You can’t let him miss out on the fun, can you?!

“How are you handling the change in climate?” You ask him.

He doesn’t seem startled at all by the sudden question. “No trouble, really. I’ve been to court several times in the past.” He replies, focusing his attention down the table. “And you?” He finally asks.

“The climate isn’t an issue so much as the lack of water. Don’t know if I’ll be able to sleep right without spending at least part of the day a’ sea.” You grimace. “Your the crown-prince of Errat, then?”

He nods, “Indeed. And you’re the bastard son of Edward Kabot.” The remark is not a question.

“Indeed.” You grin. This is a spicy one. “I guess you’ve studied up on us, then?”

“Naturally, we gathered information on the likely champions, as I’m sure you did.”

You laugh, “Ha, never. Life is less fun when you avoid surprises. Any juicy tidbits you have on any of our new friends, here?”

He meets your eyes. “As if I’d tell you.” He replies matter-of-factly.

“Fine fine, be that way.” You pop a mushroom into your mouth, “How ‘bout this. You tell me about someone at the table, and then you can ask me a question, anything at all.”

“What if I lie?”

“Well, then I’ll know you’re a liar, and the same goes for you if I lie.”

He grins for the first time. “Fine then. Ask.”

“Tell me about the big fella down there, ol’ John Patrick. Duluth is right next door, you must know something.”

He ponders for a moment. “JP…” He brings a hand up and twists his goatee. “Is one of the Champions I know the least about, aside from you.” He says frankly. “We had prepared for the Prince Henry Horton of Duluth to be the champion. We had considered alternatives, like JP, but studied them less. He’s the Prince’s younger brother, much larger though, as you can see. Warded in the Winterlands and is apparently betrothed to a girl there, although I expect if JP finds success here that Betrothal may be reneged on. He is a skilled combatant. He has had some impressive finishes in melees throughout the Empire, despite still being a novice knight. As for his other qualities, I’ve yet to figure out. He comes off as rather simple minded and outgoing, but I’ve long learned not to take such signals at face value.”

(Cont).

>>6068852
You struggle to pay attention through his long description, the wine is already getting to you. But the information about JP will no doubt prove helpful at some point, as will the insight into Messian’s personality. “I see…” You finally respond.

“Now, as for my question.” He straightens himself, “Do you actually want to be Emperor, or would you be open to throwing in your lot with someone else?”

How do you answer?
>Yes, I want to win!
>I'm more interested in keeping someone else from being Emperor, as long as my enemies lose, I don't care if I win.
>I'd be open to supporting another cause, for the right promises.
>I haven't decided yet.
>Write in.

>>6068854
>I haven't decided yet.

>>6068854
>I haven't decided yet.

>Write in.
"You were warded in Borealis weren't you." This guy has been to the capital, which Borealis is closest and would provide good opportunity to do so. Plus he gets straight to business and all he wants to do is observe these guys and offer us a deal lol.

"If you ever find yourself in Chalmuth know that every man goes in ready to play, ready to see how the dice fall. These sly jesters have put together a game for us with some good stakes on the line. A game that favors a player with nothing left to lose. Who can take the gems and keep them, who can take their ambition and replace it with something else. Are you looking for a captain with the right stuff, or do you have one in mind?"

>>6068928
Awesome write in. Gonna let things sit over night. I'll post some dice rules tomorrow as well.

>>6068956
Thanks, and sounds good.

(posting from mobile)
No update today. Emergency situation. All is well. God willing I will be back tomorrow. Thank you for your patience.

>>6069521
Hope it turns out alright Jester

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Alright, finally back home (on laptop so maybe a different ID). Gonna get another narrative post up tomorrow and get back in the rhythm of at least one post a day. For today, just posting the dice rules.

>>6070779
I am sure our pirate prince will make many friends here and not lie at all.

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Rolled 33, 91, 20, 4 = 148 (4d100)

>>6068859
>>6068928
>Updated Char Sheet and Dice Rolls
Since we only had two responses, I'll cast my tie-breaker vote to include the write-in. Doing a charm roll for it to see how Messian takes it. DC is 45. Silvertongue will provide two extra rolls, and because of the detailed and flavorful write up, I will award an additional extra roll.

>[Charm roll: DC 45; Base (1) + Silvertongue (2) + GM Fiat (1)]

>>6071408
Success. Writing. May be a bit but I'll get it up within the next hour or two.

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>>6068928
“You warded in Borealis as child, didn’t you?” You ask with a sly grin.

He raises an eyebrow. “You told me you didn’t do any research.”

“I didn’t. But you said you’d been to the capital before, and Borealis is right next door. Plus, you get right to business, typical of a Borealian merchant.”

He can’t suppress a grin. “Impressive, if you’re telling the truth, which I’m inclined to think you are. Most people lack that kind of attention to detail. You’re certainly an interesting fellow.”

“I get that a lot.” You reply, smirking.

“Still, you didn’t answer my question. What is your objective? Do you desire to be the next Emperor?”

You shrug, “To be honest with you, Messian, I haven’t figured out yet…” You say casually. “Have you ever been to Chalmuth?”

His stoic expression returns and he regards the question in suspicious silence for a moment before finally shaking his head.

“Well, if you ever find yourself there, you need to know that every man goes in ready to play, to see how the dice fall. These sly jesters have put together a game for us with some good stakes on the line. A game that favors a player with nothing left to lose. Who can take the gems and keep them? Who can take their ambition and replace it with something else?”

He seems puzzled by your sudden speech, and for the first time appears to have lost his composure.

“What I’m wondering is, are you looking for a captain with the right stuff? Or do you already have someone in mind?”

He answers immediately, “I intend to pursue the throne.” For a second, he looks to be debating whether to continue or not, and decides to do so, “Although, it is only because I believe I am the most fit candidate among those present.” He squints his eyes at you, “If, as we close in towards the end of the game, I feel I’m unable to win, I’ll put my gems behind whichever champion could potentially win whom I believe is most fit to rule.”

“And if someone convinces you they are more fit to rule before that time?” You ask with a cheeky smile.

“Then I would support them.” He says frankly. “Although I find that unlikely. There are only a handful of you who I have anything to learn about, and aside from one impressive deduction, none of you have done anything to convince me you’re capable of managing an Empire.”

You shrug, “Fair. As I said, I haven’t decided either.”

“That there is anyone here with an open mind is a relief. I suspect most of our fellow Champions can only imagine themselves on the throne.” He glances at Eric out of the Corner of his eye when he says that.

After that, you and Messian talk a bit about your homes. He tells you about Messian school and culture and you tell him about living on the open waters. By the end, you’ve formed a bond with him. Further, you have Captured Messian’s Interest (1).

The rest of the dinner passes mostly uneventfully. Once people have had their fill of food, wine, and conversation, they begin excusing themselves one by one.

>>6071463
The game begins tomorrow, you have a little bit of time before you should let the wine carry you to sleep. How do you want to spend it?
>Remain at the table and see who the last person there is besides you and talk with them.
>Head back to your room and fill Olaf in on everything and get his perspective on it.
>Head out and explore the streets of the Imperial Capital.
>Write in.

>>6071465
>Remain at the table and see who the last person there is besides you and talk with them.

>>6071465
>Remain at the table and see who the last person there is besides you and talk with them.

Nice we're back on.

Rolled 3 (1d9)

>>6071483
>>6071487
Rolling for who stays, not gonna include Messian since that would be uninteresting imo.

1: Eric
2: Zachariah
3: Andrea
4: Annabella
5: Sasha
6: Nicholas
7: Nancy
8:JP
9: Iain

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>>6071894
(lol forgot to change my name from risk ><).
Anything in particular you want to talk to Andrea about?
>Get to know her backstory, just try establish a rapport
>Focus on her goals for the competition, try to probe and figure out if she would be a good ally to have
>Go full Rico Suave, put on the moves and try to get her interested in you.
>Ask her about someone else [specify].
>Write in

>>6071896
>Get to know her backstory, just try establish a rapport

>>6071896
>Get to know her backstory, just try establish a rapport

>Write in
"Nicholas and Eric started quite the little shouting match, I suppose getting along for one night was too much to ask them for. But that was quite the string of insults you offered to the air."

>>6071944
>>6071963
We'll do a charm roll to get her overall impression of you. Also, as a general rule I'll use write-ins as long as they fit within the spirit of the winning vote, which I think this one does.

>[Charm roll: DC 40; Base (1) + Silvertongue (2)]

Rolled 62, 96, 73 = 231 (3d100)

>>6072025
Must have messed up the dice, here we go.

>>6072027
Great roll, very nearly a crit. Writing.

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One by one, the others trickle out until only you and Andrea remain at the table. Her face is flushed, apparently from all the wine she drank, and she is wearing a content, mellow expression.

“Nicholas and Eric started quite the little shouting match, I suppose getting along for one night was too much to ask. But that was quite the string of insults you offered to the air.” You say after JP finally departs.

A confused frown flashes onto her face until she finally seems to understand you. “My mom always says my temper will get me in trouble one day, maybe it will be here.” She says with a shrug.

“Or it might be what puts you on the throne.” You grin, “What do you think of the capital so far?”

“Cold.” She replies immediately. It most certainly isn’t, but you can see how someone who grew up on a tropical island would think so. “Crowded.” She puts a finger to her chin. “I’m trying to think of a good thing to say about it… I’ll get back to you if I ever come up with one.” She huffs, “What about you?”

“I agree, it’s a bit crowded. Back in Chalmuth we spend all day out on the waters. Even though this is the largest building I’ve ever seen, I still feel cramped.”

“I almost warded in Chalmuth.” She empties a bottle of wine into each of your glasses. “Not long after you got your independence from Ellia, but their ambassador threw a fit at the prospect of the Issian heir going to ward in a kingdom they still felt was illegitimate and pressured my father into backing down.” She takes a sip of wine, you can see she’s getting more animated. “Ugh… I can’t stand them. Like that Eric kid, he probably thinks the Empire is his by right.” She glares at you, as if misdirecting her rage.

You put up your hands, “You’ll find no bone in my body with any sympathies for Ellia, to call someone an Ellian is tantamount to challenging them to a duel in Chalmuth.”

She doesn’t laugh at the quip, but you seem to have successfully reminded her that you are, in fact, not an Ellian, and continues. “I’m almost jealous that you used to be a part of Ellia, because now that you’re broken away, you don’t have to listen to them anymore. We’re separate countries, but my father will practically do whatever they want. I hear it got a thousand times worse after Chalmuth broke away, since the bastards needed access to our ports to avoid Chalmuthian pirates.”

“Well, whenever you’re on the throne, whether of Issi or the Empire, you can fix the situation. If I can, I’d be happy to help you bring the bastards down.”

“Good. That’s what I like to hear.” She holds up her glass. “To Ellias downfall, and Issi and Chalmuth’s rise!”

You grin and join the toast, clanking your glass against hers. “To the Ellian royal family changing our chamber pots before all is said and done!” You set your glass on the table and then dump the rest of the ruby red wine into your mouth.

(cont.)

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>>6072131
She does the same and then lets out a loud sigh, “Ugh, I better get to bed before it’s too late.” She pushes herself up. “It was nice to meet you, Marshall. Good luck tomorrow.”

“And you.” You nod your head at her and then, once she’s gone, stand up and head back to your apartment.

Bond Gained: Andrea

When you arrive, you find Olaf already passed out on a sofa, snoring loudly. You decide it’s best not to bother him and fall onto your bed, your body feels heavy from the food and wine, and it is not long until sleep takes you.

You awake to sunbeams pouring in through your east facing window and can feel your heart pounding in your head. You may have had a bit too much wine last night, not an unusual feeling for you.

>Just rest, eat some breakfast, try to get mentally prepared for whatever is to come at midday.
>Chat with Olaf about the competition.
>Try to find someone else and talk to them [Specify].
>Write in.

[Also, one extra background things for Marshall before we get into the competition:

Pick a spell Marshall learned in Crain:
>Voodoo Restoration: Marshall became skilled in the crafting of healing potions, and can largely repair most non-mortal wounds within a day or so, given the time and ingredients.
>Divination: Marshall learned a potion that he can drink to scry a certain area during his dreams. However, failure to properly craft the potion can have bizarre and unpredictable consequences on the user.
>Evil Eye: With enough focus, Marshall can negatively alter the luck of someone.
>Essence Sap: Marshall knows the recipe for a poison that will cause a weapon to drain the life-force of an enemy and imbue it into Marshall.
]

>>6072145
Hmmm those are all pretty tempting spells. We have Olaf who knows medicine. Though gifting someone a healing potion would be a good way to deepen or start a bond, but we could also bring them to Olaf and he could work on them to some effect. Less time spent on our ass recovering the better.

Divination could be very handy. Maybe we stumble across an event and then prepare an edge, or ones that no one else finds, or one announced in advance that we can look into. Even if we don't find one it also means we know where not to look that day. Strongest use might be to scry someone's chambers to see what they are planning, where they keep their gems and other things we might want to steal. That negative could also be very funny, if we knew we had made a bad potion we could also try to poison someone else with it though thats IF we can tell we messed up. Or it makes us look bad.

The chuuni in me wants that Evil Eye. "Oh my evil eye is so strong I have to wear an eyepatch" lol. No spending time crafting potions, just spend some focus on altering their luck, and always useful since luck is always a factor. A tourny fight event where we put bad luck on the fighters we don't want to face. Or just to mess with the ones we don't like. I wonder if we can do it in a fight as well, or if thats no good?

Essence sap would give us a really nice edge in a fight. Possibly heal him? Strengthen him? Make him just better at everything for the rest of the day? The two fighty princes, but also anyone could have brought a fighty bodyguard. Contestants cant hurt each other, but maybe bodyguards and mercs can?

But with Sasha here and if we are close enough maybe she would make some of this for us, help out with some of it, be our ally.

>Try to find someone else and talk to them [Sasha].
>Write in.
Somehow I feel like Sasha might have an old Crane cure for hangovers recipe and that Marshal has asked her for some plenty of times.

Marshal thinks surprises make life more fun so I think hes not inclined to take divination. Plus I am looking forward the the gambling event where they play cards and he just spams Evil Eye on everyone else.

>Evil Eye: With enough focus, Marshall can negatively alter the luck of someone.

>>6072145
>Chat with Olaf about the competition.

>Divination: Marshall learned a potion that he can drink to scry a certain area during his dreams. However, failure to properly craft the potion can have bizarre and unpredictable consequences on the user.

Gonna see if I can drum up any interest in the general, having at least one other voter would be helpful haha

>>6072805
Consider my vote changed to +1 the other anons if you want to move forward with a post.

>>6072917
I appreciate it. A little busy this evening, but, assuming no other votes roll in I'll write that in the morning and we'll get moving along.

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>>6072195
>>6072267
>>6072917
[Ability: Evil Eye] added to char sheet.
>Evil Eye, Rank 1: Roll a sorcery check against an individual. Upon a success, they will omit the highest result on their next roll.
Upgrades available at Rank 2:
>Affect more than one roll
>Omit more than one result
>On failed sorcery check, still lower their total dice rolled by 1.

Alright, writing the post now.

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>>6073340
Olaf is already up, he has commandeered the only table in the room as his workstation. He somehow managed to lug two large trunks onto the side of the table opposite his seat, they are open and look to have vomited herbs, powders, tinctures, and other ingredients across the table. In the midst of the mess, he is writing in small, fine cursive on a small piece of parchment.

“Good morning, Doctor.” You say, rubbing your head.

“Good morning, my prince.” You have insisted a hundred times that he simply call you Marshall. To require that your subordinates use honorifics is considered shameful behavior in Chalmuth (with the exception of “Captain,” a title belonging to the leader of any crew or ship). A man should lead by his own merit, and by fair division of booty, not by exalting himself with self-important titles or by keeping his men beneath him with arcane legal codes. That is the Chalmuthian way. Still, Olaf spent the first half of his life in the Imperial Capital, so your father excuses his stubborn courtesies. “You were out rather late, did your audience with the Emperor extend so long?”

“No, no, I met with the other Champions to get to know them before the contest begins.”

Olaf’s old head bobs a few times. “Contest?” He croaks curiously.

“I’ll explain later, it begins at midday and I have someone I need to speak to before it starts.” You stretch your hands over your head, “What are you writing?”

He looks down at the parchment. “A list of herbs that were scarce to find on Chalmuth. I need to restock my supplies since we’re in the capital. I’ll be going to the market later. Once I’ve got them, I’ll work on making some potions and elixirs to aid you in whatever comes.”

“Thank you, Olaf. I’m off.” You head out the door. You never got a chance to speak with Sasha last night, and you’re not sure if she even recognized you, but if she did, it couldn’t hurt to at least say Hi. Plus, Crainish have a very potent hangover cure that could be a big help to you right about now.

The apartment corridors look totally different than they did the night before, and you aren’t sure where her room is in the first place. Nonetheless, it isn’t particularly difficult to find. Only one of the apartments has purple steam billowing out from beneath the door, filling the hallway with a spicy-sweet smell you recognize as being packed with swamp-herbs and spices.

You knock.

(cont.)

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>>6073412
Several seconds pass, and you hear a husky voice call out, “Come in, Marshall.”

The vapors leaking from her door give only a modest hint at the gust of vapor that washes over you when you enter. As the steam dissipates into the hallway, you see Sasha’s smooth, caramel back unclothed, covered in a strange mandala tattoo that is decorated with ritual symbols you can only vaguely recognize. The room is similar in layout to yours for the most part, although already cluttered from her ingredients, like Olaf’s table but more widespread. Still, you don’t see any evidence that she’s brought anyone along with her.

She’s standing in front of the fireplace where a small cast iron cauldron bubbles, which is the source of the steam. A more chivalrous man might blush at her shirtlessness, but Chalmuthian women aren’t known for their modesty, so it doesn’t bother you at all. “Sasha, I’m glad you remembered me, and even seemed to be expecting me. You ought to have said ‘hi’ last night.”

Sasha pulls a wooden spoon out of the cauldron, blows on it, and softly sips from it. “Did I ward in Chalmuth? You should have come to see me if you wanted to speak.” She says matter-of-factly. “I knew you would in time, and knew you would need this too.” She picks up a clay cup and spoons several spoonfuls of the concoction into it. She turns, making no efforts to cover her small, perky brown breasts as she offers it to you. “You had quite a lot of wine last night, I think you’ll need your wits about you today.”

When you left Crain, you were both practically children, not even teenagers yet. Now, Sasha is a woman grown, and every bit as much a witch as the hags you used to capture toad-eaters for in exchange for lessons in their esoteric arts. You grin and take the cup. “Well, you have certainly grown up.” You take a sip. The brew is so thick as to nearly be a syrup, and mauve in color. The odor seems a lure when it passes slowly over your tongue, sickly sweet and so spicy you want to cringe, but you maintain your composure, taking several swigs of the potion. Despite its vices, a wave of relief seems to pass over you almost immediately, and you break out into a sweat.

A soft, flat smile passes over her face, “And you, Marshall. We don’t have much time, so tell me. Was there anything else you wanted except a cure for your aching head?”

What do you want to talk to her about?
>That was it! You’re ready for the contest to begin!!
>Ask her about what she thinks of the contest. What are her goals?
>Just catch up with her, see what she’s been up to in the years since you last saw each other.
>Write in.

Discuss teaming up?
>Yes, to put her on the throne if she wants it.
>Yes, to put you on the throne.
>Yes, and determine who ought to rule as you approach the contest’s end.
>No, not now.

>>6073414
>Just catch up with her, see what she’s been up to in the years since you last saw each other.

>Yes, and determine who ought to rule as you approach the contest’s end.

>>6073414
>Just catch up with her, see what she’s been up to in the years since you last saw each other.

>Yes, and determine who ought to rule as you approach the contest’s end.

>>6073655
>>6073658

"Well, I can’t lie that this was a big reason I came,” You nod down towards the cup, “The biggest reason was to catch up with you, of course.” You grin, then brace yourself for another gulp of the brew. “No need to rush our reunion, why don’t you put a shirt on and we can walk over to whatever opening ceremony they plan to hold.”

The demure smile that seems to be her trademark spreads across her face again. “Very well, finish that quickly, then, I’ll be right back.” She steps away into a separate room. You grimace and tip up the bottom of the cup, letting the viscous, purple substance slide down your throat.
Only a minute or two later, Sasha returns in a loose fitting tan top, “Shall we?”

“Let’s go, Lady Toussle,” You say with a hint of irony.

She snorts, “Don’t tell me you learned manners since we parted ways? That would be very disappointing.”

“Not at all, quite the opposite really. Cap’n beat out all the ‘sirs and maams’ your mother forced on me while I was staying with you.”

“Good, it always sounded strange coming from your mouth.” Sasha gathers a few things into a small leather satchel, slings it over her shoulder, and leads you out the door.

As you make your way towards the Palace square, you see more and more servants hurrying about. “How are things in Crain, anyway? It seems you’ve taken to your people’s ways.”

“Good. And yes, before I was summoned here, I was in the midst of an apprenticeship with Madame Marceaux. I begged my father not to make me leave. But you know him, once he sets his mind a certain way, it’s impossible to change it. So here I am.”

“Why not send Madame Marceaux with you?”

She tosses her head back in brief laughter, “That woman would rather die than leave her swamp.” She tilts her head thoughtfully, “Really, she probably would die. She was old when my grandparents were young. She’s practically a part of the swamp.”

You shrug, “My father sent an old geezer with me, a medicine man. Spends his time a bit like you, toying around with herbs and roots and animal parts.” You wave a hand dismissively.

“Yes you could never quite wrap your head around all that could you?” She counters.

You shoot a flirty glare. “You’ve certainly grown much bolder. What happened to the girl who hid behind her mother’s legs when strangers came?”

“Likely the same thing that happened to the boy who cried when Madame Auclair replaced his tongue with an eel.”

You laugh, “What do you mean? I would certainly cry if that old hag did that again.” You admit, smirking.

She giggles, and you hear in it the unmistakable sound of the Sasha you remember from your youth. “Ah, so then, how is Chalmuth?”

“As deplorable as ever, I suppose. Dad is starting to get a bit greyer and fatter, but he's robust nonetheless, always surrounded by whores with a drink in his hand. Ellia still wants to slit his throat, and mine by extension.”

“You’re his heir-apparent then?”

(cont.)

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>>6074412
“No one knows what that old bastard is thinking, mostly because his whims change with the tide. Most people in Chalmuth would think so, but if I happen to piss him off on his death bed he’d give the whole kingdom to one of my half-siblings just to spite me.”

She chuckles, “I guess you won’t need to worry about that if you win this contest.”

“Ha, right.” There’s a pause. “I don’t know if you know any of the other champions, but assuming you’re not, let’s work together? I don’t know if you want the throne, and you don’t need to tell me, we can work that out among ourselves if the time comes. But going at this completely alone seems like a sure way to failure.”

She smiles, “I had a feeling you were going to ask that.”

You stop walking, “And?”

“I agree. Bonds formed in childhood are stronger than those formed as adults, I can trust you more than anyone else here, even if we haven’t seen each other in a while.”

“Perfect, it’s decided then. We’ll work together, and do our best to make sure one of us wins whichever challenges we both take part in.”

As you say that, you step out into the Palace square and see a massive crowd of people gathered around a clearing with a large sundial in the center. The dial, and the sun itself, show that it is very nearly midday. In the midst, you can see your fellow champions, standing around the Jester who spoke to you yesterday.

“And the last of our champions has arrived!!” A loud voice booms through a bullhorn, and is echoed by other announcers throughout the crowd. When you join the other champions, there is a tension that was nowhere to be found the night before. You can feel the contemptuous glares of some and the analytic gazes of others, but none of them seem your friend.

“When the dial reaches noonday, the contest will officially commence.” He reaches into a pouch at his waist and then tosses something to both you and Sasha. You each catch them, and find a topaz, the size of an egg-yolk. “A gift to begin your collection.”

As soon as it makes contact with your skin, you can sense that it isn’t an ordinary gemstone. You feel like if you focused just a bit of your will on it, something would happen… maybe something that is best to investigate later. You put it in your pocket and look at the sundial.

You notice that the entire thing is decorated with the Imperial Seal. Written across is a black number: 11.

"As you can see, we have placed a challenge here. In order to commence a challenge, the requisite number of champions simply need touch the Emperor's seal. So if you'd like, you can begin this challenge . . . now." The sundial marks noon.

Trumpets blare over the sound of drums banging and symbols clanging as an announcer roars, "THE EMPEROR'S GAME HAS BEGUN!"

The Champions all look at one another, as if trying to come to some nonverbal agreement about stepping onto the Sundial challenge.

(Cont.)

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>>6074432

"As if." Nicholas finally breaks the silence. He puts his hands into his pockets and walks briskly away from the rest of you. The other champions follow suit, one by one, until only you and Sasha remain.

"Well, then, Captain, how should we begin?" She asks, wearing her signature smile.

Your overall strategy, as of now, is going to be to
>Win challenges and collect gems, simple as
>Try to win people over to your cause. Use challenges diplomatically to forge alliances.
>Try to learn about the other Champion's habits, better to let them do the heavy lifting. You can just steal the gems from them.
>Try to learn about the other Champions to see if there's anyone else worth allying with.
>Write in.

Your first move is:
>Try to find a map of the Imperial Territory so you can keep track of challenge locations.
>Try to find someone and ask them to join your alliance [Specify]
>Start searching the city for challenges immediately, if you waste time, other Champions might get to all the easy ones first.
>Start tailing another champion.
>Go back to your room and touch base with Olaf.
>Write in.

>>6074435
>Win challenges and collect gems, simple as
>Try to learn about the other Champions to see if there's anyone else worth allying with.

We can do both at the same time.

>Try to find a map of the Imperial Territory so you can keep track of challenge locations.

>>6074435
Those are some good questions. Atleast Sasha and Marshal are solid. Messian plans to try for Emperor but is atleast willing to back someone else if need be. Andrea was surprisingly not hostile and even dislike Eric/Ellia which is handy. Olaf probably has some good info on the politics of everyone. But I figure, what is a swashbuckling pirate without his treasure map? Might even notice a pattern.

If there was a river going through the city I'd even say he should get a little boat that he can guide around or use for romantic evenings.

>Win challenges and collect gems, simple as
>Try to learn about the other Champions to see if there's anyone else worth allying with.

Give the challenges a shot when we have the opportunity and get a feel for the others like we've been doing. That seems about right. If we end up too late to attend a challenge we can still influence it with the evil eye, and favor a side.

>Try to find a map of the Imperial Territory so you can keep track of challenge locations.

>>6074695
"Whats a Captain without his treasure map? Though I've already got the best treasure right here." A rogue and a flirt?

[No post today, should be back tomorrow.]

>>6075143
Hope its goin alright Jester

>>6075143
Praying for you Jester

>>6076133
>>6076719
All good, thanks for the well wishes. Combination of trying to get a lot of stuff prepared for this and business in personal life. Writing now and should have something up shortly.

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“What’s a captain without his treasure map?” You grin and shrug, “Although, I’ve already got the most valuable treasure right here.” You look over at Sasha.

She smiles back in her inscrutable way. It’s the only reaction that could make someone with your confidence feel even the slightest bit of embarrassment at the cheesy line. Did she like it? Was she cringing? It was impossible to tell.

“Er… That is, a map of the imperial territory could be useful.” You slowly recover your swagger, “We can chart out any challenges we find along with their value and the number of players needed to start them.”

“Smart. Where could we get something like that?”

You grin a toothy grin. “I haven’t the faintest idea, although I know someone who might. Let’s go to my room.” You start back towards the palace apartments.

As you walk back, you talk to her about your plan for the challenge. “We should keep our mind open to teaming up with others, but only once we learn about their personalities and abilities. I figure the best way to do that is to simply compete in some challenges.”

Sasha nods along, having little to say about your plan and seeming content enough to follow along with what you want to do. She keeps her body close to you as you walk, close enough that you occasionally touch.

As you approach the apartments, you begin to hear a growing murmur, and when you turn into the broad apartment hallways you see its source: a crowd of well-dressed men and women. Some are standing by hastily put together stalls covered in weapons, armor, and other supplies. Others are standing in groups and having hushed conversations. They crowd seems to be radiating from a particular doorway, although you’re not sure to whom it belongs. As you pass through, heads turn towards you.

“Prince Kabot! Lady Toussle! A word!”

“Do you have a supplier for your weapons?”

“I have thirty good men outside ready to scour the capital for challenges.”

You push through them, “It seems the leeches have arrived.” Nonetheless, they could come in handy later.

Sasha grins back, almost seeming not to notice them.

You finally make it to your door, which was apparently at first rather unattended to but growing increasingly crowded with your arrival, and head inside.

(cont.)

>>6076786
Olaf has returned from his errand, and nodded off in front of his, now even more cluttered, workspace. At your arrival he jumps. “Ah, my Prince, welcome back.” Olaf slowly moves his gaze over to Sasha, then after a moment, “You must be Lady Toussle, of Crain.” He starts to slowly push himself up from his seat.

Sasha watches him, amused.

“Don’t bother, Olaf, you'll be glad, or perhaps terrified, to know that Sasha has a practically Chalmuthian disregard for those kinds of courtesies.” You turn to Sasha grinning, “But shame on you for not stopping him.”

Sasha giggles and shrugs, “I leave people to do as they please.”

Olaf rests in his chair, it’s difficult to tell on his old face, but you think he might be slightly embarrassed. “The contest has begun then?”

“Indeed. And for it, we’ll need a map of the Imperial territory, all of it. Know where we can get one?”

You can see the disappointment in his face, he’s clearly very curious about this contest, after all it’s the whole reason he’s here, but still has heard only faint clues as to its nature.

Olaf ponders the question for a moment, his chin quivering. “Well…” He begins in his hoarse, aged voice. “One of these merchants in the hallway may happen to have one, although you should be wary of its accuracy. There are cartographers in the capital who would no doubt sell you one, although the price would be high and depending on the map, it may lack certain details you wish to have. I could recommend one, if you’d like. The most accurate and detailed map would be within the Imperial archives, although I doubt they would be willing to part with it.”

You put a thumb to your chin. Always so many choices. Why can’t things just be simple?

>Find someone in the hallway to sell you a cheap map.
>Ask Olaf for his cartographer recommendation and head over there and pick one up that’s premade.
>Go to a cartographer and commission a new map.
>Check out the Imperial Archives.

Also, go ahead and fill Olaf in on what’s happening?
>Yeah
>Nah, he’s waited this long he can wait a little longer.
>Get someone from the hallway to explain it to him, you have places to be!

>>6076788
>>6076725
Solid.

Two ideas.
One, take a cheap map and then go take a good look at the imperial archives one to copy from the archive one what seems important and obvious corrections. Though doing this with the map from Olaf's guy would probably be the most accurate map we can reasonably make without a huge bother and expense, if Swashbuckler is handy for working a map or not is a question.

Two, take a cheap but ascetically good looking map and then swap it for the real imperial archive map. Use the evil eye to drop some archivist's luck into the dumpster until they cause a scene for an opening to make the swap and leave. Sasha could probably help with this if we can both evil eye someone? Or some other witchcraft, or maybe she has a familiar.

>Yeah

>>6076788
>Ask Olaf for his cartographer recommendation and head over there and pick one up that’s premade.

I'd rather just go for the path of least resistance honestly

>Yeah

>>6076959
I've gotta wonder what sort of hints and useful info might be on such map as their imperial archive one. Would the jesters put anything extra on it to encourage a theft. I figure if anyone is meant to steal it's the swashbuckler, but I suppose Olaf being useful would be nice.

>>6076821
>>6076959
We are once again in an unfortunate situation with a tie. I hate for someone to keep having to concede their vote. A third player would be so helpful to, at least, reduce the number of times we end up in this sort of situation.

I may try n' shill in the general one more time. If that doesn't work, I suppose I'll just do a 1d2 roll.

In the meantime, >>6077250, regardless of which of your two suggestions you decide on, the basic outline of your plan is: buy a cheap map and head to the imperial archive, right?

>>6077410
Yeah you got it. I don't mind just going to Olaf's guy though. It might be nice to know a map guy in this city, who by his craft should be well acquainted with the city. If the expense was bad we could try to talk him down with silvertongue, or try to steal it from him as well lol. See if we can get Evil Eye to work for something like that. Trading him some knowledge of sea navigation charts.

I just figured getting acquainted with Imperial Archive and its people might be handy for some challenges, maybe there are already challenges in there. Figuring out a good way to sneak in or out. Needing a map and taking the best one seems pretty fun. Taking it would also deny the use of it to the other contestants if it had some really interesting tidbits other maps didnt have. The effort to take it and not be pointed at for its theft could be considerable though. ""Accidental"" burning of the cheap one we swap it with when someones candle got too close perhaps. Using Evil Eye and bumping them in such a way, doing it while the other distraction happens, assuring them it was an accident. Advertise and see what happens, but feel free to progress with Olaf's guy as well. Other anon was kind enough to change on the power vote after all.

>>6077470
[On mobile]
Roger. No luck in getting another voter, so I'll go with >>6076959, then. I'll do my best to incorporate anything from your post that doesn't contradict the decision, though.

In the future when we have a tie, I'll probably just go ahead and roll, and then do my best to incorporate as much from the losing vote as possible without deviating from the winning votes decision.

Anyway, I appreciate you fellas for sticking with this. I'll have the next post up a little later today.

You ponder the choice for a moment. The imperial archive does sound appealing. It’s probably the same map that the Jesters use for getting around, and wouldn’t omit any detail. That said, trying to steal it would be a risky venture, and trying to copy it would probably take far too long. It may be worth visiting later, but you can’t let the perfect get in the way of the good.

You spend some time talking with Olaf. You tell him about the rules of the contest and then finally get his recommendation of where to find a reliable cartographer. All the while, Sasha is inspecting his medicinal collection in stoic silence.

Olaf gives you the name of an old map shop in the shipping district surrounding the Great Confluence. He does his best to jot down directions to get there on a scrap piece of parchment.

“Thank you, Olaf!” You pocket the parchment. “About how much do you wager such a map will cost me?”

Olaf strokes his chin for a moment. “Hmm… A high quality map of the imperial territory… Sold to a foreigner. No doubt they’ll try to fetch at least a gold piece from you.”

It almost sounds like a challenge, you’ll need to low ball these greedy cartographers to the best of your ability. “By the way, how much money did the old man send me with?”

Olaf glances warily at Sasha before tripping some mechanism in his medicine case, a hidden door opens, and he retrieves a small velvet pouch from inside. He shakes it, and you hear the jangling of coin. “A fair sum. Although, perhaps modest compared to that of the other champions.” He hands the bag over to you.

Peeking inside the bag, you see more copper than anything, with a modest amount of silver and only the occasional glint of gold. Cheap bastard. You’ve seen Cap’n’s treasure room, he could have definitely done better than this. You shove the bag into your bag. “Well then, let’s go.” You say to Sasha. “Thank you, Olaf.”

The sun is still high in the sky as you step outside the palace onto the Capital’s paved streets. You can see that some people already recognize you and Sasha, pointing and whispering at you as you walk by.

(cont.)

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The area directly adjacent to the palace is a sort of business/ government district, full of knights, merchants, and other well dressed men and women hurrying to and fro between tall, sturdy stone buildings. The further you get from the palace, the more modest the scene becomes. The stone buildings are replaced by small wooden ones that are pressed closely together. The well dressed men and women of court are replaced by workers in worn garb.

You and Sasha pass most of the walk in silence, and after nearly an hour, you feel the unmistakable breeze that accompanies a large body of water, and not long after, you find one of the Capital’s rivers, which you assume to be the Nethon. You walk alongside it for a while, watching the merchant ships sailing in from the Nethos and Pan, until at last the Great Confluence comes into view.

For a moment, you feel almost that you’re back in Chalmuth, until you barely make out the faint sight of land across the massive body of water. You had heard about it. The merging of two rivers, one from the volcanic peaks of Nethos and the other from the cold wastes of the Winterlands, directly in the center of the continent. It’s practically a lake, surrounded by docks, warehouses, and markets, and full of ships and houseboats. It’s every bit as busy as the Imperial Square, if not more so, but lacks any refinement. People are yelling, drinking, and fighting with one another all about.

Maybe the Imperial Capital isn’t so bad after all. You push through the growing crowds and finally make your way to the row of buildings that Olaf indicated in his directions. A two story wooden shack about a block from the waterfront. A sign is out front, 'Arry’s Maps.'

(Cont.)

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>>6078632
You step inside and find yourselves in a cramped, musty room. Everywhere you look is parchment, scrolled or unscrolled. Ornate, beautiful maps not only of the capital, but of the whole continent. You even see a map of Chalmuth that seems… mostly accurate at a glance. Some of the maps relate to places you have never even heard of, which you can only assume are lands across the sea to the south.

“What do you need?” You didn’t notice the proprietor at first among the cluttered interior. He’s a short, bent, fat man stuffed into clothing that you assume fit him in his youth. He has scraggly gray hair sprouting from his head and chin and stern wrinkles on his face.

“A map, as you can imagine.”

“I charge extra if you waste my time, ye shit.” He grumbles, “Where ya headed?” You’re relieved that he doesn’t seem to know who you are. Upon reflection, it makes sense that no one outside the immediate area of the palace would recognize you.

“We’re staying here, actually. We need a map of the Imperial territory. The more detailed the better.”

The old man groans as he pushes himself off of his chair, “Not sailing, then? Going by land?” He steps around the map-covered counter and goes to a corner of the room that seems to be full of maps of the Imperial territory. “Ye lookin’ for landmarks then? Trails? Streams? Caves?” He seems to be making himself impatient with his questions and glares at you.

“Landmarks and trails, definitely. We need the city and the entire territory. Something that’ll help us get around by foot or horse and also to tell us all the things that are out there. And it needs to be big enough so that we can write on it.”

He flicks through a number of the maps, occasionally looking up at you with a judging eye. “Alright then…” He begins pulling a few out, and then stops. “You have money, right?”

You shake your bag and let him hear the jingle of your coin.

He nods, and pulls out a few more, until he’s collected a stack of almost eight maps. He goes through those eight several times, and then seems to hone in on one. “I think this has what you need.” He sets a map down on the counter. It’s fairly large, the same size when folded into quarters as many of the other maps are unraveled. It shows the entire territory, with notations for the various small cities throughout the territory as well as other landmarks and features. In the bottom right corner, it has a map specifically of the capital itself, showing the different districts and noting important landmarks or buildings.

“This seems to be just what we need. How much?”

“Hmm… map like this? I’d say four gold is fair."

>"In your dreams, I'm not paying a copper over 1 gold"
>Just steal the map and run
>Just pay the four gold
>Write in

[Next post may take a bit longer to put up as I complete the map].

>>6078633
Damn, 4 gold? Highway robbery is what this is. Might have to just come back at night and steal it on principle. Though Id have some fun with him first, try haggle time. Then if that fails come back at night and steal a few things. Or possibly replace this map with a big empty roll of similar cloth.

Or maybe drop a coin so it slides under his desk and ask him to get it. With that bent back it might buy a minute or two to stealthily swipe one of the other maps he was considering and leave the big one which has his focus. See how the haggle goes first though.

>"In your dreams, I'm not paying a copper over 1 gold"
>>Write in
"And I thought Chalmuth were brazen pirates. I can see why you were suggested. First you rob a man blind, then perhaps send for a tonic on his account to return the light to his eyes."

"Atleast this map shows me why business is so busy everywhere else on the docks. You would make a pauper of me and every other man who walks in. Anyone looking for gold finds the map leads them straight to the ghetto, so marked in the corner."

"I can scarce wonder how the sea charts fair since you last saw the ocean. But I'm atleast a fair man. I can point out a few of the new and better sea routes in use and you knock down the price of this map."

>>6078804
+1

Rolled 55, 47, 63, 26, 50, 83 = 324 (6d100)

[Nearly ready with everything, gonna go ahead and roll and will hopefully get a post up tomorrow.]

>[Charm roll: DC 75; Base (1) + Silvertongue (2) + Swashbuckler (3) = Bo6]

>>6080286
I swear this guy keeps only just barely passing his checks. Looking forward to that map.

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You guffaw. “And I thought Chalmuthian’s were brazen pirates. I can see why you were suggested. First you rob a man blind and then perhaps send for a tonic on his account to return the light to his eyes.”

The man maintains an unwavering expression.

You glance over the map, “Well, maybe this map will explain why every shop on the docks is so busy except yours, although if I had to guess I’d say it’s because you’d rather turn a man into a pauper and guide him straight into the ghettos here.” You tap the corner of the city borders, “Than conduct fair business.”

Despite your words, you don’t feel particularly indignant. This is just how bartering is done in Chamulthu. First, you feign indignation, then hurl insults, and then last pour honey on the wound. You hope the method is effective here as well.

“Plenty o’ other map shops around.” He grumbles, and starts to roll the map.

“Now you came recommended to me by a trusted friend, so I believe you have the map I want, of the Imperial City at least. I can scarce wonder how your sea charts fair since you last saw the ocean. I’ve sailed from Chalmuth through Varyne to Issi and Crain, even down to the queer southern lands. How’s this, knock three gold pieces of that price, and I’ll review your charts. Fair?”

The man eyes you warily, “Why should I trust a word yer sayin?”

“I am Marshall Kabot, first ship of Dread Captain Edward Kabot. If I’m lying may the earth open and the sea swallow me!” You raise a finger.

The man’s suspicious expression breaks. “Fine then. One gold, and you give me some notes on my charts.”

You fish a gold piece out of your purse and hand it over to him. He gently rolls up the map and drops it into a brass tube and hands it to you.

You take the map and turn to Sasha, “Sweet Sasha, could you hold onto this while I assist our friend…” You wait for him to offer his name.

“Guster, you can call me Gus.”

“... Gus with his charts.” You hand the brass tube over to her.

She smiles and takes, storing it away in one of the impossible pockets in the puzzle that is her loose fitting clothing.

You spend the next hour or two looking over various southwestern charts, offering updates and suggestions. When you’re finished, Gus is very thankful.

“If ye ever need any other maps, ye just let me know, alright my boy?” He pats you on the back.

“Alright then. Thanks again, Gus. We’ll see you around.”

You reconvene with Sasha and look over the map.

Your next step should be to…
>Go to a particular district within the capital [Specify]
>Go somewhere outside the capital [Specify]

Your strategy for now is to…
>Find as many challenges as possible in that area and note them all on your map, you can decide which ones you want to complete once you know the ley of the land. Knowing where challenges are could be a powerful bargaining tool for later.
>Note any challenges that require 3 or more people, but plan to participate in any that require only one or two.
>Write in

>>6081988
Damn, that's a map with some soul. Good job man.

>Go to a particular district within the capital [Markets]


>Note any challenges that require 3 or more people, but plan to participate in any that require only one or two.
>Write in
I'm thinking it might be time for a drink, the best place to hear any rumors about Jesters sighted or anything strange. Good place to find a kid who'd be willing to run back and forth to find rumors for coin. To consider a good way to quickly visit the more distant areas, so perhaps a horse or a suitable river craft. So the docks/markets.

Could even try to recoup lost coin by gambling, we got that swashbuckler experience, we got silvertongue for bluffing, we got evil eye to try and give the other player bad luck.

And if Sasha needs anything for magic, if she knows that voodoo restoration potion maybe we could get a sick or lame or feisty horse for cheap, then tend it over a couple days. Though maybe Olaf knew some medicine for horses too.

>>6082055
+1

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“The busier areas of town, like this one or the commercial district here,” you point at the map, “Seem like good places to, if not find some challenges, at least find some information. We can also stock up on supplies, find passage throughout the territory, and so on.” You orient yourself, using the sun to find north and then determining your relative location on the map based on the river. “We’ll just need to head South and find the biggest, busiest tavern we can find. I’ve worked up a mighty thirst after all this walkin’ and talkin’.” You grin, roll up the map, and begin walking South.

Sasha, ever silent and serene, trails behind you.

“Ah, and if you need any supplies we can find those as well.” You say to her over your shoulder.

“I wonder if they’ll have what I need here…” She ponders, tapping her chin with your long, thin index finger. “It would be worth a look. Let’s find our tavern and let it be our meeting place. I’ll check some of the herb shops for anything useful.”

As you journey away from the water and towards the commercial district, the monstrous crowd of people around you hustling and bustling between buildings and stalls never diminishes, but its nature slowly changes. In the docks, salty sailors bark orders in gruff voices from behind thick, unkempt beards, but as you enter the commercial district, the people become cleaner and more refined. The cargo changes from strong-smelling fish and oils to fine smelling spices, bolts of silk, and arms. The people are clean-shaven, well dressed, and smell of perfume, and instead of shoddy wooden huts and stalls, they hurry between sturdy, stone buildings and large wooden warehouses.

On the corners between the busy trails you spot the occasional watering hole, with cheerful business men sharing pitchers of wine. One in particular stands out to you as being larger and busier than the rest, perhaps due to the fact that it sits next to the main road. It’s four stories high, with a large porch on the first two floors and individual balconies on the top two. A large painted sign is attached to the second porch: ‘The Drunken Jester.’

“This bastard is as big as 10 Chalmuthian tavern-boats!” You say in amazement as you lead Sasha up a small flight of stairs onto the first floor’s porch. A bar lines the porches railing, and individual tables are crammed together so tightly that, except for the trail allowing passage into the bar itself, there is little place to stand. Each of the tables is full, as is every place at the bar. Some people are discussing business, others playing cards, and others simply laughing and talking about this or that.

“I’ll be off then.” Sasha says abruptly, standing so close to you that you can feel the heat from her cheeks against your shoulder. “I’ll find you here when I’m done, then?”

>>6082838
You’re still grinning at the lively atmosphere when you turn to respond, “Aye, hopefully amassing a fortune in cards.” You jingle your purse, “Don’t take too long, now. I don’t intend to spend the rest of the day here if I can help it.”

“Don’t worry.” She says in her soft, sweet voice wearing the impenetrable smile you’re only now beginning to grow used to. You lean to hear her, and her gentle, spicy-sweet breath goes gently over your neck and ear, raising the hairs on your neck. “I’ll be quick.”

You eye her warily for a moment. Is it such a good idea to send her off on her own? Well, what’s the worst that could happen, really? “Good… although coming to save you from some handsy drunkard may make me look awfully dashing.”

She only grins, and steps back before disappearing into the crowded street.

You watch the place in the crowd where she disappeared for a moment. This girl really has become a full blown witch. You shrug, glad she’s on your side, and walk towards the interior bar to get your drink.

The inside is every bit as busy as the outside. The bar is a full square, with columns at each corner. Three worker’s stand in the middle, a busty brunette woman wearing a low cut top, a slim, mousy blonde haired girl with long bangs that half cover her eyes, and an older man with a large, bulging gut and a thick gray beard. The two girls are hustling back and forth to the man with empty glasses, he fills them, and then they quickly take them to the waiting customer in exchange for coin.
Several signs are posted, showing a menu to your surprise. In Chalmuth a tavern would never bother with a sign, since hardly anyone can read. Literacy must be the norm in this district. The sign reads:

‘-Varyne Burgundy: 2 Coppers
-Duluthian Red Ale: 1 Copper
-Pork Pie: 2 Coppers’

Wine, beer, and pie. Simple enough. You make your way to the bar, and after a short wait find yourself at the front of the line.

Your Order:
>The Burgundy
>The Ale
>+A pie

Your first step:
>Grab your drinks and start chatting up other patrons. Ask about rumors related to the Jesters, challenges, and so on. [If you want to bribe, specify the maximum you’re willing to spend total].
>Get in on a game of cards [Specify the maximum you’re willing to lose]
>You’re in the business district that means you’re here to do BUSINESS. Wheel and deal. Try to get things that might be useful for the quest: A horse, lodging away from the palace, passage on a ship, or men. [Specify if there’s anything in particular you want].
>Write in.

>>6082845
>The Ale
>+A pie

>Grab your drinks and start chatting up other patrons. Ask about rumors related to the Jesters, challenges, and so on. [4 Silver and 30 Coppers.]

I figure the coppers are translating straight into ales and wines and pies lol. Free drinks and a hot meal always makes it easier to talk. Then some silver for someone who seems like they could really gather some rumors proactively. Like the brunette or the mousey blond, the bartender old man, or a favored patron. So four silver and some drinking expense.

>>6083218
Gonna be a longer update, and it's my last week at my current job, so there may be a longer-than-usual delay. We're on page 5 for now. If it looks like we're approaching page 7 or 8 when I'm finally able to update, I may put the update here and then continue in a new thread. We'll see. As always, I appreciate your continued participation.

>>6083738
Righto I'll keep that in mind.

>>6083218
+1

>>6083738
Hope its going alright Jester